2016.10.27 Field Hockey: Briar Woods @ Potomac Falls, Conf. 14 Final

Leesburg, VA (October 27, 2016) – When the first ever Conference 14 field hockey tournament bracket was announced, Briar woods had earned a first round bye as the third seed of six teams. But that meant they would likely have to be in the role of underdog by first beating second-seeded Stone Bridge, which they did, and then top-seeded Potomac Falls, which they would try to do tonight.

It happened fast. Just three minutes into the game, the Falcons were awarded a penalty corner. A quick pass led to a strong shot and a rebound in front of the net. Taylor Merlino was there to sweep the ball in for the lead.

With two strong teams on the field, and such an early goal, it figured to be a high scoring night, but that lone goal held up as neither team would score again. The Panthers had their chances including a flurry of three straight corners after full time expired. But the Briar Woods' defense held strong and then raised the conference trophy high.

Both teams will advance to the regional tournament next week along with Tuscarora, who upset Stone Bridge in the third place game.

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